The Southern Ferry Dock is once again open for everyone to enjoy – and it’s something our community can be proud of. Located along the Blue Water River Walk, this historic dock has served many roles over time. It helped railroad cars cross the river, then became home to the Gray Fox ship, a former Navy vessel used to train young Sea Cadets, and today, reclaimed and restored for public use.

Thanks to the support of generous partners and local donors like the Knowlton Foundation Fund, Chuck & Vicky Knowlton, Sue Ann Ostrom, Port Huron Rotary Club, James C. Acheson Fund II, Community Foundation of Southeast Michigan Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Legacy Funds, Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation, and gifts made in memory of Colleen Smith, in total, the Southern Ferry Dock received nearly $300,000 in gifts to fund the renovations.

Improvements include a new paved path connecting the dock to the main trail, updated lighting, and new decking with accessible railings that will make the space even more welcoming and easier for everyone to enjoy.

“The southern ferry dock was one of our last remaining large projects, and in serious need of repair,” said Will Oldford, Community Foundation Board Chair. “Now it’s not only preserved – it’s a space that the whole community can enjoy.”

The Community Foundation of St. Clair County, which owns and operates the Blue Water River Walk, led the project, starting by listening to what the community wanted most. Local fishing enthusiasts, including Mary Williams, Captain Dave Malkiewicz, and Tom Watkins, shared ideas to improve access and make the dock better for anglers. Their feedback led to custom railings that can accommodate pole holders and ADA-friendly design features.

“The Southern Ferry Dock adds to the very few places where wheelchair users can connect with the river and use it as a recreation amenity,” said Watkins. “It means more people can fish, relax, and actually experience the water, not just watch it from a distance.”

Every part of the project was completed with quality in mind, including contractors and materials. Local companies helped bring the vision to life, including Blue Water Audio and Video, B&T Electric LLC, Jelsch Paving Company, Seawall Answers, Union Properties LLC, Blue Water Glass Inc, Hyde Home Exteriors LLC, and DTE Energy. This team handled everything from stabilizing the ground to installing hardwood decking, lighting, pathway, and Corten steel railings that will patina and stand up to the elements over time.

These improvements are part of a long-term commitment made to its original owner, James C. Acheson, who donated the land to the Community Foundation fifteen years ago.  “We promised Jim that we would maintain, protect, and care for this one-mile stretch of shoreline and its amenities, ensuring it stays public, accessible, and welcoming for future generations,” added Oldford.

More enhancements are on the way, including plans to light the entire trail to make it even more inviting. This work will be done in phases, continuing with an additional 300 feet of lighting scheduled for summer 2026. Anyone interested in supporting future improvements and upkeep to the Blue Water River Walk—whether individuals, businesses, or organizations—can reach out to Randy Maiers or Natacha Hayden at the Community Foundation.